Latest Insights in the Evolving Digital World

Exploring the ALPS Switch

Since technology has taken over the world in just a short span of time, there have been tons of innovative features created for using that technology. One of the biggest sectors to see new innovations is the world of computer keyboard design. Keyboard manufacturers

Many people prefer the mechanical-style of keyboard switches because of the satisfaction of hearing and pressing the keys and the traditional feel of the keyboard. Mechanical switches are the most similar to old typewriter style keys, which is a popular choice for individuals who originally learned to type on typewriters.

While there are many different types of mechanical keyboard switches, one of the oldest forms and still most widely-used is the ALPSswitch. The ALPSswitch was first introduced in 1984, and is still in use with many mechanical switches today.
The ALPS switch is created by theALPS company, and has two main styles in use today. The original formulation of the switch is known as the complicated switch, because it has more features and parts than the newer, simplified designs. The complicated switch houses the electrical contact plates inside a plastic switchplate box. The actuation leaf of the contact plate is contained on the sides of the switchplate.

Although the original, complicatedALPSdesign preformed well, the creation of the switch was rather complicated and contained many different parts. The newer, simplified version was modified to make the installation of the switches easier. The design removed the box around the switchplate, simply leaving two contact points on either side of the switch. Simple grooves hold the contact points in place, which makes assembly much easier and the switch profile much smaller.